Gastroesophogeal Reflux Disease also known as GERD is a chronic digestive disease. GERD occurs when the back-flow or reflux of stomach contents travels back up into the esophagus, which irritates the lining and can cause permanent damage. If not treated the chronic inflation can: cause narrowing of the esophagus which can cause difficulty swallowing, an esophageal ulcer which can bleed and cause pain and make swallowing difficult, and precancerous changes that can lead to cancer.
The doctor prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (Prilosec), a histamine 2 blocker (Pepcid), and a proton pump inhibitor to be taken for two weeks at home. Pepcid, a H-2 blocker, was prescribed to decrease the amount of acid the stomach produces for up to 12 hours but does not provide quick relief. Prilosec, a proton pump inhibitor, allows the damaged tissue to heal by being a stronger blacker of acid production than an H-2 blocker.
The proton pump inhibitor that is to be taken for two weeks at home allows rapid resolution of symptoms and heals the esophagus in 80%-90% of patients.
Preventing some of the symptoms of GERD is possible with a few lifestyle and dietary changes. If you notice that your heartburn occurs after a meal or at bedtime try and remain in an upright position to allow the food to digest fully and also try a triangular positioning pillow in bed to keep your esophagus above your stomach. This upright position and angled position prevents the acid from coming back up the esophagus. When eating it is best to eat smaller meals rather than larger meals since a large meal takes longer to digest. Also try and eat the largest meal of the day about midday.
